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UK PM pushes for new multilateral defence initiative that could oversee joint procurement and reduce rearmament costsView the full article

Stress isn’t just an occasional visitor in our lives—it’s more the houseguest who never got the hint to leave. Between economic uncertainty, workplace upheaval, rounds of layoffs, and the delightful unpredictability of daily life (surprise traffic jams, anyone?), most of us are living in a near-constant state of low-grade panic. But here’s something most people don’t realize: resilience—the ability to stay calm, flexible, and creative in the face of stress—isn’t just an inborn trait. It’s a skill. One that can be learned, practiced, and strengthened. And some of the most effective tools for doing that come not only from the world of business or psychology, but also from improv comedy. I stumbled on this connection over a decade ago. During the day, I worked with startups and leaders—after hours, I practiced and performed improv. Eventually, I noticed the overlap: The same tools that help improv comedians thrive on stage can help anyone navigate the unscripted, often absurd, realities of modern work and life. And research backs this up. A study I conducted in collaboration with neuroscientist Dr. Ori Amir found that improvisational activities improve creativity, confidence, and even sleep, some of the key elements of resilience. Here are three specific improv-inspired practices I use myself and share with leaders, teams, and individuals navigating change, uncertainty, and desiring a new way to cope with life’s stressors. They’re deceptively simple but surprisingly effective, precisely because they work with the brain’s stress response, not against it. The ‘Yes, And’ Mindset: From Resistance to Resourcefulness We’ve all been there: The project scope changes at the last minute. The client scraps months of work. The market tanks overnight. The instinctive reaction? Resistance. Frustration. Freeze mode. That’s not just emotional, it’s neurological. When our brains perceive a threat (even a calendar invite titled “urgent”), the body shifts into fight, flight, or freeze mode, flooding us with cortisol and narrowing our focus to survival. In improv, the foundational rule is “Yes, and.” It means accepting what’s happening (even when it’s not what you wanted) and building from it. It’s not about blind agreement; it’s about acknowledging reality so you can move forward instead of staying stuck. From a nervous system perspective, “Yes, and” mimics emotional acceptance and acts as a regulatory tool: It signals safety to the brain by reducing resistance, which helps shift you out of survival mode and into a more flexible, solution-oriented state. Consider this real-world example: When the pandemic hit, many restaurant owners faced ruin. Some who thrived, like those who pivoted to pop-up markets or meal kits, were effectively practicing “Yes, and.” They acknowledged reality and improvised forward. Next time stress hits, try this: Literally say to yourself, “Yes, this is happening. And here’s one thing I can do.” Even identifying one small action helps break the paralysis of overwhelm. Fire Your Inner Judge: Quieting the Critical Voice That Blocks Action One thing that keeps people stuck in stress is an overactive inner critic. In improv, there’s no time for the voice in your head that says “That’s a stupid idea” or “You’ll mess this up.” You have to act before you overthink. In every workshop I lead, including one for a Fortune 500 team navigating layoffs, the first thing I ask everyone to do is “fire the judge.” Everyone pictures their inner critic, then, together, on the count of three, we say whatever needs to be said to let go of judging the activities we’re about to do, judging each other, and judging ourselves. The effect? Most people report feeling both lighter and sharper, because they’ve bypassed the internal filter that often fuels stress and indecision. This isn’t just theatrical. It’s neurological. Research shows that self-criticism is associated with higher anxiety, while reducing it through self-compassion improves emotional regulation and cognitive flexibility. Softening judgment creates the conditions for clearer thinking and more effective action. If It Feels Weird, Do It: Using Unusual Actions to Ground and Reframe One of the fastest ways to disrupt a stress spiral is to do something that feels slightly ridiculous. In improv, weird is where the magic happens. The unexpected action, like walking backward while giving a speech, or delivering a toast in gibberish, pulls us out of autopilot and into the present. It breaks habitual thinking and creates space for a new response. When we do something “weird,” it works in two ways: First, it grounds us. Movement or gesture helps regulate our emotions and the nervous system. Second, it primes the brain for possibility. Engaging in unexpected behavior temporarily loosens our grip on “the way things are,” which makes space for “the way things could be.” It’s a reset button for the brain. Here’s one “weird” three-minute exercise to try. Start pointing at objects around you and naming them out loud. Point to a table and say “table,” a plant and say “plant.” Do this for 30 seconds. Now shift: point at objects and label them with anything they are not. Point to a chair and say “giraffe,” a laptop and say “birthday cake.” It feels silly, and that’s the point. Research shows that simply naming what we see or feel can calm the nervous system by shifting attention to the present moment. Combined with deliberately disrupting automatic thinking (even by saying the “wrong” word), we loosen cognitive rigidity and open the door to more creative problem-solving. I’ve led this exact exercise with executive teams navigating pressure, and every time, it opens the room. People laugh. Shoulders drop. Ideas start flowing. Weird works. These tools aren’t about turning you into a comedian. They’re about building a more responsive, resilient nervous system, and one that can meet chaos with curiosity instead of collapse. Stress may be the houseguest who never leaves, but improv is how you learn to live with it, laugh with it, and maybe even dance with it. Try one of these practices the next time stress hits, and you might just surprise yourself. View the full article

DraftKings and Flutter shares slide as investors fret about threat posed by apps such as KalshiView the full article

Along with SG Warburg, the asset manager played a pivotal role in London’s financial growthView the full article

Why apologise for what was the most successful international order in history?View the full article

The organisation faces a potential rival in Donald The President’s fledgling ‘Board of Peace’. But as a forum for US power, it would be a hard act to followView the full article

Agreements reached between Taiwan and The President administration imply big expansion for world’s biggest chipmakerView the full article

In today’s competitive market, loyalty schemes have become crucial for maximizing shopping rewards. Programs like AdiClub and Starbucks Rewards offer unique benefits that cater to diverse consumer preferences. From tiered rewards to community engagement, these schemes not just encourage repeat purchases but additionally improve overall customer experience. Comprehending how these programs work can lead to smarter shopping choices. Let’s explore the top ten loyalty schemes and see how they can benefit you. Key Takeaways AdiClub offers 10 points per dollar spent, with tiered membership levels that enhance benefits and purchasing frequency among loyal customers. Starbucks Rewards provides 2 stars for every dollar spent, allowing members to redeem stars for free drinks and food items. Foot Locker FLX Rewards Program links over 25% of sales to points earned, boosting average order value and providing cash redemption options. Lululemon Membership features personalized offers, early access to product drops, and community engagement, enhancing the overall shopping experience. Walmart Everyday Value and Rewards offers 1% cashback on eligible purchases, encouraging frequent shopping through tangible benefits. AdiClub: Elevating Fashion and Sports Loyalty AdiClub, adidas’ innovative loyalty program, has transformed the way fashion and sports enthusiasts engage with the brand. With over 240 million members, this program offers a digital loyalty card experience that rewards you with 10 points for every dollar spent. As you progress through four membership levels, you reveal escalating benefits like free shipping and exclusive event access. Level 4 members, for instance, enjoy premium perks such as opportunities to win signed products. The program’s design greatly improves your shopping experience, driving annual revenue growth by 15-25% among loyal customers. Members tend to purchase 50% more frequently than non-members, showcasing the effectiveness of online loyalty schemes in nurturing customer loyalty. With exclusive access to limited releases and unique experiences, AdiClub not merely raises your engagement with adidas but equally aligns perfectly with your interests in fashion and sports heritage. Rapha Cycling Club: Building a Cycling Community The Rapha Cycling Club (RCC) offers a unique platform for cycling enthusiasts to engage with one another through organized group rides and community events. By participating in these initiatives, you not just strengthen local cycling networks but additionally gain access to exclusive events that improve your overall experience. With the RCC’s robust app, connecting with fellow riders and staying updated on activities becomes effortless, nurturing a lively cycling community. Community Engagement Initiatives Community engagement initiatives play a crucial role in cultivating a sense of belonging among members of the Rapha Cycling Club (RCC). By organizing over 1,000 group rides monthly, RCC nurtures local connections among cycling enthusiasts. Utilizing the loyalty card mobile app, members can easily join rides and access exclusive events. The RCC’s subscription model additionally includes benefits like subsidized club kits and a digital rewards card, improving the overall experience. With over 23,000 active members, the community-oriented approach has proven successful. The RCC manages high-demand product drops through Queue-it, ensuring priority access, which further deepens loyalty. Feature Benefits Access Method Group Rides Local Connections Loyalty Card Mobile App Subsidized Club Kits Improved Experience Digital Rewards Card Exclusive Events Community Building Digital Loyalty Card Free Exclusive Events Access Exclusive access to events is one of the standout features of membership in the Rapha Cycling Club (RCC), greatly enriching your cycling experience. As a member, you can participate in over 1,000 group rides each month, nurturing connections with fellow cycling enthusiasts. This sense of community is further improved through local Clubhouse events, where you can meet and ride with others who share your passion. The RCC app likewise provides a platform for social interaction, letting you share experiences and updates. Membership brings additional benefits, like subsidized club kits and early access to limited-edition products. With tools like Queue-it, you gain priority access during high-demand product drops, ensuring you never miss out on exclusive offers and events. Starbucks Rewards: Simple and Engaging Benefits Starbucks Rewards offers a straightforward yet effective way for coffee lovers to benefit from their purchases. With this points-based program, you can easily earn rewards during enjoying your favorite beverages. Here are some key benefits: Earning Stars: You receive 2 stars for every dollar spent, allowing you to accumulate rewards quickly. Redemption: You can redeem 150 stars for a complimentary drink or food item, providing a tangible reward for your loyalty. Convenience: Save your favorite orders and order ahead through the mobile app, making your coffee runs seamless. Exclusive Offers: Enjoy personalized offers, free refills on brewed coffee and tea, and access to member-only games and promotions. As of early 2024, nearly 34.3 million active members greatly contribute to Starbucks‘ U.S. sales, showcasing the program’s effectiveness in enhancing customer engagement and driving spending. The North Face: XPLR Pass and Experiential Rewards The North Face‘s XPLR Pass offers unique experiential rewards that connect you with the brand’s outdoor ethos. By joining this free loyalty program, you can participate in community engagement events like group hikes and product testing, enhancing your adventure experience. Furthermore, the program emphasizes sustainability, inviting you to take part in responsible outdoor initiatives that align with your love for nature. Experiential Reward Opportunities Many outdoor enthusiasts are discovering the benefits of experiential reward opportunities through The North Face’s XPLR Pass loyalty program. This program offers unique experiences that deepen your connection with nature and the brand. Here’s what you can enjoy as a member: Group Hikes: Participate in organized hikes that connect you with fellow outdoor lovers. Exclusive Events: Attend member-only gatherings that focus on sustainability and environmental awareness. Product Testing: Get hands-on experience with unreleased gear before it hits the market. Limited-Edition Access: Enjoy early access to exclusive collections, ensuring you don’t miss out on sought-after items. With a 54% year-over-year increase in traffic, it’s clear that members value these experiential rewards, enhancing both brand loyalty and community engagement. Community Engagement Events Community engagement events play an essential role in enhancing the overall experience of members in The North Face’s XPLR Pass program. Through exclusive invitations to member-only activities like group hikes, you deepen your connection to both the brand and fellow outdoor enthusiasts. These events encourage a sense of belonging, creating opportunities to share your passion for exploration. Event Type Benefits Group Hikes Connect with fellow members Product Testing Events Experience unreleased products Outdoor Activities Engage with the community Sustainability and Adventure Focus Focusing on sustainability and adventure, The North Face’s XPLR Pass program offers members unique experiential rewards that promote both environmental awareness and outdoor exploration. With this program, you can enjoy various benefits that improve your outdoor experience as well as supporting eco-friendly practices. Here are some key features: Earn 1 point for every dollar spent, with 100 points redeemable for a $10 voucher. Participate in member-only events, like group hikes, that nurture adventure and environmental consciousness. Enjoy early access to limited-edition collections, aligning exclusive products with sustainability. Engage in local Clubhouse events to build community connections with fellow adventure enthusiasts. The XPLR Pass rewards you for purchases and encourages deeper engagement in sustainable activities. Lululemon Membership: Luxury and Community Focus Lululemon Membership stands out as a unique offering in the domain of loyalty programs, as it prioritizes luxury and community over traditional discount models. By offering early access to product drops and exclusive events, the program creates a sense of exclusivity for its members. You’ll additionally benefit from services like free hemming and receipt-free returns, enhancing your overall shopping experience. Since its launch, Lululemon has seen remarkable engagement, with 9 million sign-ups within the first five months, indicating strong interest. Over 30% of members actively take advantage of at least one benefit, showcasing how the program encourages connections within the fitness community. This membership caters to both general consumers and fitness professionals, reinforcing Lululemon’s commitment to a lifestyle that blends luxury with an active community. By joining, you not only enjoy premium products but additionally become part of a supportive network. Foot Locker: Hype Culture and Cash Rewards As sneaker culture continues to thrive, Foot Locker‘s FLX Rewards program has emerged as a notable player in the loyalty arena, especially after its revamp in 2024. This program allows you to earn points for every dollar spent, which can be redeemed for cash and exclusive event access. Here’s what makes it stand out: Early Access: Get early access to highly sought-after sneaker releases. Point Redemption: Enjoy increased transparency in how you redeem points. Xtra Boosts: Earn “Xtra Boosts” to amplify your chances of winning limited product drops. Tiered Benefits: Benefit from tiered rewards based on your spending, promoting frequent purchases. With over 25% of Foot Locker’s sales linked to the FLX program, it’s clear that engagement among first-time redeemers has considerably increased, resulting in a higher average order value. This program is designed to maximize your loyalty as it embraces the hype culture of sneaker enthusiasts. SKIMS Rewards: Fashion-Forward Loyalty With SKIMS Rewards, you earn points for every dollar you spend, giving you a direct way to benefit from your purchases. As a member, you’ll additionally gain access to exclusive fashion releases and community engagement events that improve your shopping experience. This program not merely rewards you for your loyalty but also nurtures a sense of belonging among SKIMS‘ diverse customer base. Exclusive Fashion Releases When you join SKIMS Rewards, you gain access to a world of exclusive fashion releases that cater to your style needs and preferences. This loyalty program improves your shopping experience with: Limited-Edition Access: Be among the first to shop unique pieces that aren’t available to the general public. Early Product Launches: Enjoy the privilege of purchasing new collections before anyone else. Personalized Offers: Receive customized promotions based on your shopping behavior, ensuring you get what you want. Community Engagement: Connect with fellow members to share style inspirations, nurturing a sense of belonging. Points for Purchases Reveal the benefits of SKIMS Rewards, where every dollar you spend translates into points that improve your shopping experience. With this points-based loyalty program, you earn 1 point for each dollar spent on SKIMS products, encouraging repeat purchases and deeper engagement. You can redeem your accumulated points for discounts, with 100 points equating to a $10 reward, making it appealing for regular shoppers. The program furthermore features tiered levels, offering escalating benefits like exclusive early access to new collections for higher-tier members. In addition, SKIMS Rewards provides personalized offers customized to your shopping habits, enhancing your overall experience. Since its launch, this program has successfully nurtured brand loyalty and increased repeat purchases, contributing positively to the company’s sales growth. Community Engagement Events SKIMS Rewards improves your shopping experience by prioritizing community engagement through exclusive events designed for members. These events not only encourage a sense of belonging but likewise improve your loyalty experience. Here are some key benefits: Exclusive Access: Attend behind-the-scenes events and influencer meet-and-greets. Points Earning: Gain rewards points for participating in community events, boosting your loyalty. Social Media Sharing: Share your experiences to amplify brand visibility and connect with others. Improved Community Spirit: Engage with fellow members, strengthening your relationship with the SKIMS brand. These initiatives align with trends showing that community-focused loyalty programs can greatly improve customer retention and satisfaction, making your shopping experience more rewarding. Sephora: The Beauty Insider Experience Sephora‘s Beauty Insider Program offers a structured rewards experience that caters to beauty enthusiasts by encouraging spending through a tiered system. With three levels—Insider, VIB, and Rouge—you earn increasingly valuable rewards based on your annual spending. For every dollar spent, you gain one point, which you can redeem for exclusive products, beauty classes, and unique experiences, enhancing your engagement and loyalty to the brand. This program boasts over 25 million members, showcasing its effectiveness in driving repeat purchases and customer retention. Furthermore, Sephora personalizes offers and provides birthday gifts, which nurtures a stronger emotional connection. The Beauty Insider Program is likewise recognized for its community-driven approach, promoting social interactions and user-generated content. In the end, this combination of structured rewards and community engagement makes Sephora’s loyalty program a top choice for maximizing your rewards in the beauty sector. Walmart: Everyday Value and Rewards Moving from the beauty sector to everyday shopping, Walmart’s Everyday Value and Rewards program offers a practical approach to customer loyalty. This program focuses on providing cashback on purchases, allowing you to earn 1% back on every eligible purchase, which can lead to significant savings over time. Here are key features of the program: Straightforward Points System: Easily track your rewards via the Walmart app, enhancing your shopping experience. Discounts on Future Purchases: Redeem your earned rewards for discounts, making it beneficial for frequent Walmart customers. Integration with Shopping Experience: Earn rewards both online and in-store, ensuring a seamless experience. Fostering Brand Loyalty: The initiative encourages you to choose Walmart for your everyday needs by providing tangible benefits. With these features, Walmart’s program stands out as a valuable option for maximizing your shopping rewards. McDonald’s: MyMcDonald’s Rewards for Frequent Diners At McDonald’s, the MyMcDonald’s Rewards program transforms your dining experience by permitting you to earn points with every dollar spent. You’ll earn 100 points for each dollar, which you can redeem for various menu items. This program furthermore offers exclusive deals and personalized offers based on your purchase history, enhancing your overall experience. With a tiered system in place, you can access additional benefits as you spend more, incentivizing frequent visits. Reports show that members engage more, visiting McDonald’s 20% more often than non-members. The convenience of the McDonald’s app allows you to seamlessly track your points and rewards during ordering ahead, making it easier to enjoy your favorite meals. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Most Successful Rewards Program? Currently, the most successful rewards program is Starbucks Rewards, with nearly 30 million members. Its points-based system encourages frequent purchases, contributing to 53% of store spending. Adidas’ AdiClub follows closely, boasting over 240 million members who purchase 50% more frequently than non-members. The North Face’s XPLR Pass and Lululemon‘s membership programs likewise demonstrate significant engagement and revenue boosts, showcasing the effectiveness of well-structured loyalty initiatives in driving customer behavior and enhancing sales. What Is the World’s Most Generous Rewards Program? The world’s most generous rewards program is widely recognized as Starbucks Rewards. Members earn two stars for every dollar spent, and these stars can be redeemed for free food and beverages. Furthermore, you’ll receive exclusive offers and a free birthday drink. With over 34 million active users in the U.S., the program greatly boosts customer loyalty, offering tiered benefits that improve your earning potential and overall experience as a customer. What Are the 3 R’s of Loyalty? The 3 R’s of loyalty are Reward, Recognition, and Relevance. Reward focuses on providing benefits like points or discounts to encourage repeat purchases. Recognition involves celebrating customer milestones, enhancing their connection to your brand. Relevance tailors loyalty programs to individual preferences and behaviors, improving the customer experience. What Are the 4 C’s of Customer Loyalty? The 4 C’s of customer loyalty are Commitment, Connection, Community, and Communication. Commitment involves the emotional bond you form with a brand, encouraging you to make repeat purchases. Connection focuses on personalized experiences that meet your individual preferences, enhancing loyalty. Community promotes a sense of belonging among customers, creating shared experiences. Finally, Communication guarantees brands maintain open channels with you, providing timely updates and personalized interactions that build trust and reinforce loyalty. Conclusion In summary, exploring these top online loyalty schemes can greatly improve your shopping experience as well as maximize rewards. Programs like AdiClub and Starbucks Rewards offer customized benefits that cater to various interests, from fashion to coffee. By participating in these loyalty initiatives, you not just accumulate points and rewards but additionally engage with communities that share your interests. Comprehending the unique offerings of each program allows you to choose the best fit for your shopping habits and lifestyle. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "10 Best Online Loyalty Schemes for Maximizing Rewards" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In today’s competitive market, loyalty schemes have become crucial for maximizing shopping rewards. Programs like AdiClub and Starbucks Rewards offer unique benefits that cater to diverse consumer preferences. From tiered rewards to community engagement, these schemes not just encourage repeat purchases but additionally improve overall customer experience. Comprehending how these programs work can lead to smarter shopping choices. Let’s explore the top ten loyalty schemes and see how they can benefit you. Key Takeaways AdiClub offers 10 points per dollar spent, with tiered membership levels that enhance benefits and purchasing frequency among loyal customers. Starbucks Rewards provides 2 stars for every dollar spent, allowing members to redeem stars for free drinks and food items. Foot Locker FLX Rewards Program links over 25% of sales to points earned, boosting average order value and providing cash redemption options. Lululemon Membership features personalized offers, early access to product drops, and community engagement, enhancing the overall shopping experience. Walmart Everyday Value and Rewards offers 1% cashback on eligible purchases, encouraging frequent shopping through tangible benefits. AdiClub: Elevating Fashion and Sports Loyalty AdiClub, adidas’ innovative loyalty program, has transformed the way fashion and sports enthusiasts engage with the brand. With over 240 million members, this program offers a digital loyalty card experience that rewards you with 10 points for every dollar spent. As you progress through four membership levels, you reveal escalating benefits like free shipping and exclusive event access. Level 4 members, for instance, enjoy premium perks such as opportunities to win signed products. The program’s design greatly improves your shopping experience, driving annual revenue growth by 15-25% among loyal customers. Members tend to purchase 50% more frequently than non-members, showcasing the effectiveness of online loyalty schemes in nurturing customer loyalty. With exclusive access to limited releases and unique experiences, AdiClub not merely raises your engagement with adidas but equally aligns perfectly with your interests in fashion and sports heritage. Rapha Cycling Club: Building a Cycling Community The Rapha Cycling Club (RCC) offers a unique platform for cycling enthusiasts to engage with one another through organized group rides and community events. By participating in these initiatives, you not just strengthen local cycling networks but additionally gain access to exclusive events that improve your overall experience. With the RCC’s robust app, connecting with fellow riders and staying updated on activities becomes effortless, nurturing a lively cycling community. Community Engagement Initiatives Community engagement initiatives play a crucial role in cultivating a sense of belonging among members of the Rapha Cycling Club (RCC). By organizing over 1,000 group rides monthly, RCC nurtures local connections among cycling enthusiasts. Utilizing the loyalty card mobile app, members can easily join rides and access exclusive events. The RCC’s subscription model additionally includes benefits like subsidized club kits and a digital rewards card, improving the overall experience. With over 23,000 active members, the community-oriented approach has proven successful. The RCC manages high-demand product drops through Queue-it, ensuring priority access, which further deepens loyalty. Feature Benefits Access Method Group Rides Local Connections Loyalty Card Mobile App Subsidized Club Kits Improved Experience Digital Rewards Card Exclusive Events Community Building Digital Loyalty Card Free Exclusive Events Access Exclusive access to events is one of the standout features of membership in the Rapha Cycling Club (RCC), greatly enriching your cycling experience. As a member, you can participate in over 1,000 group rides each month, nurturing connections with fellow cycling enthusiasts. This sense of community is further improved through local Clubhouse events, where you can meet and ride with others who share your passion. The RCC app likewise provides a platform for social interaction, letting you share experiences and updates. Membership brings additional benefits, like subsidized club kits and early access to limited-edition products. With tools like Queue-it, you gain priority access during high-demand product drops, ensuring you never miss out on exclusive offers and events. Starbucks Rewards: Simple and Engaging Benefits Starbucks Rewards offers a straightforward yet effective way for coffee lovers to benefit from their purchases. With this points-based program, you can easily earn rewards during enjoying your favorite beverages. Here are some key benefits: Earning Stars: You receive 2 stars for every dollar spent, allowing you to accumulate rewards quickly. Redemption: You can redeem 150 stars for a complimentary drink or food item, providing a tangible reward for your loyalty. Convenience: Save your favorite orders and order ahead through the mobile app, making your coffee runs seamless. Exclusive Offers: Enjoy personalized offers, free refills on brewed coffee and tea, and access to member-only games and promotions. As of early 2024, nearly 34.3 million active members greatly contribute to Starbucks‘ U.S. sales, showcasing the program’s effectiveness in enhancing customer engagement and driving spending. The North Face: XPLR Pass and Experiential Rewards The North Face‘s XPLR Pass offers unique experiential rewards that connect you with the brand’s outdoor ethos. By joining this free loyalty program, you can participate in community engagement events like group hikes and product testing, enhancing your adventure experience. Furthermore, the program emphasizes sustainability, inviting you to take part in responsible outdoor initiatives that align with your love for nature. Experiential Reward Opportunities Many outdoor enthusiasts are discovering the benefits of experiential reward opportunities through The North Face’s XPLR Pass loyalty program. This program offers unique experiences that deepen your connection with nature and the brand. Here’s what you can enjoy as a member: Group Hikes: Participate in organized hikes that connect you with fellow outdoor lovers. Exclusive Events: Attend member-only gatherings that focus on sustainability and environmental awareness. Product Testing: Get hands-on experience with unreleased gear before it hits the market. Limited-Edition Access: Enjoy early access to exclusive collections, ensuring you don’t miss out on sought-after items. With a 54% year-over-year increase in traffic, it’s clear that members value these experiential rewards, enhancing both brand loyalty and community engagement. Community Engagement Events Community engagement events play an essential role in enhancing the overall experience of members in The North Face’s XPLR Pass program. Through exclusive invitations to member-only activities like group hikes, you deepen your connection to both the brand and fellow outdoor enthusiasts. These events encourage a sense of belonging, creating opportunities to share your passion for exploration. Event Type Benefits Group Hikes Connect with fellow members Product Testing Events Experience unreleased products Outdoor Activities Engage with the community Sustainability and Adventure Focus Focusing on sustainability and adventure, The North Face’s XPLR Pass program offers members unique experiential rewards that promote both environmental awareness and outdoor exploration. With this program, you can enjoy various benefits that improve your outdoor experience as well as supporting eco-friendly practices. Here are some key features: Earn 1 point for every dollar spent, with 100 points redeemable for a $10 voucher. Participate in member-only events, like group hikes, that nurture adventure and environmental consciousness. Enjoy early access to limited-edition collections, aligning exclusive products with sustainability. Engage in local Clubhouse events to build community connections with fellow adventure enthusiasts. The XPLR Pass rewards you for purchases and encourages deeper engagement in sustainable activities. Lululemon Membership: Luxury and Community Focus Lululemon Membership stands out as a unique offering in the domain of loyalty programs, as it prioritizes luxury and community over traditional discount models. By offering early access to product drops and exclusive events, the program creates a sense of exclusivity for its members. You’ll additionally benefit from services like free hemming and receipt-free returns, enhancing your overall shopping experience. Since its launch, Lululemon has seen remarkable engagement, with 9 million sign-ups within the first five months, indicating strong interest. Over 30% of members actively take advantage of at least one benefit, showcasing how the program encourages connections within the fitness community. This membership caters to both general consumers and fitness professionals, reinforcing Lululemon’s commitment to a lifestyle that blends luxury with an active community. By joining, you not only enjoy premium products but additionally become part of a supportive network. Foot Locker: Hype Culture and Cash Rewards As sneaker culture continues to thrive, Foot Locker‘s FLX Rewards program has emerged as a notable player in the loyalty arena, especially after its revamp in 2024. This program allows you to earn points for every dollar spent, which can be redeemed for cash and exclusive event access. Here’s what makes it stand out: Early Access: Get early access to highly sought-after sneaker releases. Point Redemption: Enjoy increased transparency in how you redeem points. Xtra Boosts: Earn “Xtra Boosts” to amplify your chances of winning limited product drops. Tiered Benefits: Benefit from tiered rewards based on your spending, promoting frequent purchases. With over 25% of Foot Locker’s sales linked to the FLX program, it’s clear that engagement among first-time redeemers has considerably increased, resulting in a higher average order value. This program is designed to maximize your loyalty as it embraces the hype culture of sneaker enthusiasts. SKIMS Rewards: Fashion-Forward Loyalty With SKIMS Rewards, you earn points for every dollar you spend, giving you a direct way to benefit from your purchases. As a member, you’ll additionally gain access to exclusive fashion releases and community engagement events that improve your shopping experience. This program not merely rewards you for your loyalty but also nurtures a sense of belonging among SKIMS‘ diverse customer base. Exclusive Fashion Releases When you join SKIMS Rewards, you gain access to a world of exclusive fashion releases that cater to your style needs and preferences. This loyalty program improves your shopping experience with: Limited-Edition Access: Be among the first to shop unique pieces that aren’t available to the general public. Early Product Launches: Enjoy the privilege of purchasing new collections before anyone else. Personalized Offers: Receive customized promotions based on your shopping behavior, ensuring you get what you want. Community Engagement: Connect with fellow members to share style inspirations, nurturing a sense of belonging. Points for Purchases Reveal the benefits of SKIMS Rewards, where every dollar you spend translates into points that improve your shopping experience. With this points-based loyalty program, you earn 1 point for each dollar spent on SKIMS products, encouraging repeat purchases and deeper engagement. You can redeem your accumulated points for discounts, with 100 points equating to a $10 reward, making it appealing for regular shoppers. The program furthermore features tiered levels, offering escalating benefits like exclusive early access to new collections for higher-tier members. In addition, SKIMS Rewards provides personalized offers customized to your shopping habits, enhancing your overall experience. Since its launch, this program has successfully nurtured brand loyalty and increased repeat purchases, contributing positively to the company’s sales growth. Community Engagement Events SKIMS Rewards improves your shopping experience by prioritizing community engagement through exclusive events designed for members. These events not only encourage a sense of belonging but likewise improve your loyalty experience. Here are some key benefits: Exclusive Access: Attend behind-the-scenes events and influencer meet-and-greets. Points Earning: Gain rewards points for participating in community events, boosting your loyalty. Social Media Sharing: Share your experiences to amplify brand visibility and connect with others. Improved Community Spirit: Engage with fellow members, strengthening your relationship with the SKIMS brand. These initiatives align with trends showing that community-focused loyalty programs can greatly improve customer retention and satisfaction, making your shopping experience more rewarding. Sephora: The Beauty Insider Experience Sephora‘s Beauty Insider Program offers a structured rewards experience that caters to beauty enthusiasts by encouraging spending through a tiered system. With three levels—Insider, VIB, and Rouge—you earn increasingly valuable rewards based on your annual spending. For every dollar spent, you gain one point, which you can redeem for exclusive products, beauty classes, and unique experiences, enhancing your engagement and loyalty to the brand. This program boasts over 25 million members, showcasing its effectiveness in driving repeat purchases and customer retention. Furthermore, Sephora personalizes offers and provides birthday gifts, which nurtures a stronger emotional connection. The Beauty Insider Program is likewise recognized for its community-driven approach, promoting social interactions and user-generated content. In the end, this combination of structured rewards and community engagement makes Sephora’s loyalty program a top choice for maximizing your rewards in the beauty sector. Walmart: Everyday Value and Rewards Moving from the beauty sector to everyday shopping, Walmart’s Everyday Value and Rewards program offers a practical approach to customer loyalty. This program focuses on providing cashback on purchases, allowing you to earn 1% back on every eligible purchase, which can lead to significant savings over time. Here are key features of the program: Straightforward Points System: Easily track your rewards via the Walmart app, enhancing your shopping experience. Discounts on Future Purchases: Redeem your earned rewards for discounts, making it beneficial for frequent Walmart customers. Integration with Shopping Experience: Earn rewards both online and in-store, ensuring a seamless experience. Fostering Brand Loyalty: The initiative encourages you to choose Walmart for your everyday needs by providing tangible benefits. With these features, Walmart’s program stands out as a valuable option for maximizing your shopping rewards. McDonald’s: MyMcDonald’s Rewards for Frequent Diners At McDonald’s, the MyMcDonald’s Rewards program transforms your dining experience by permitting you to earn points with every dollar spent. You’ll earn 100 points for each dollar, which you can redeem for various menu items. This program furthermore offers exclusive deals and personalized offers based on your purchase history, enhancing your overall experience. With a tiered system in place, you can access additional benefits as you spend more, incentivizing frequent visits. Reports show that members engage more, visiting McDonald’s 20% more often than non-members. The convenience of the McDonald’s app allows you to seamlessly track your points and rewards during ordering ahead, making it easier to enjoy your favorite meals. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Most Successful Rewards Program? Currently, the most successful rewards program is Starbucks Rewards, with nearly 30 million members. Its points-based system encourages frequent purchases, contributing to 53% of store spending. Adidas’ AdiClub follows closely, boasting over 240 million members who purchase 50% more frequently than non-members. The North Face’s XPLR Pass and Lululemon‘s membership programs likewise demonstrate significant engagement and revenue boosts, showcasing the effectiveness of well-structured loyalty initiatives in driving customer behavior and enhancing sales. What Is the World’s Most Generous Rewards Program? The world’s most generous rewards program is widely recognized as Starbucks Rewards. Members earn two stars for every dollar spent, and these stars can be redeemed for free food and beverages. Furthermore, you’ll receive exclusive offers and a free birthday drink. With over 34 million active users in the U.S., the program greatly boosts customer loyalty, offering tiered benefits that improve your earning potential and overall experience as a customer. What Are the 3 R’s of Loyalty? The 3 R’s of loyalty are Reward, Recognition, and Relevance. Reward focuses on providing benefits like points or discounts to encourage repeat purchases. Recognition involves celebrating customer milestones, enhancing their connection to your brand. Relevance tailors loyalty programs to individual preferences and behaviors, improving the customer experience. What Are the 4 C’s of Customer Loyalty? The 4 C’s of customer loyalty are Commitment, Connection, Community, and Communication. Commitment involves the emotional bond you form with a brand, encouraging you to make repeat purchases. Connection focuses on personalized experiences that meet your individual preferences, enhancing loyalty. Community promotes a sense of belonging among customers, creating shared experiences. Finally, Communication guarantees brands maintain open channels with you, providing timely updates and personalized interactions that build trust and reinforce loyalty. Conclusion In summary, exploring these top online loyalty schemes can greatly improve your shopping experience as well as maximize rewards. Programs like AdiClub and Starbucks Rewards offer customized benefits that cater to various interests, from fashion to coffee. By participating in these loyalty initiatives, you not just accumulate points and rewards but additionally engage with communities that share your interests. Comprehending the unique offerings of each program allows you to choose the best fit for your shopping habits and lifestyle. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "10 Best Online Loyalty Schemes for Maximizing Rewards" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

This comment section is open for any non-work-related discussion you’d like to have with other readers, by popular demand. Here are the rules for the weekend posts. Book recommendation of the week: Green Dot, by Madeleine Gray. Bored out of her mind in a job as a comment moderator, a young woman trying to figure out life gets sucked into an affair with an older, married colleague. You will be infuriated with her choices, but it’s smart and funny and it will make you so, so glad to no longer be 24. (Amazon, Bookshop) * I earn a commission if you use those links. The post weekend open thread – February 14-15, 2026 appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

Spotify’s most senior engineers don’t type code anymore. In fact, they have not written a single line of code since December, co-CEO Gustav Söderström revealed during a recent earnings call. It’s not that they’ve stopped working. Instead, through a combination of Claude Code and Spotify’s specialized internal system Honk, engineers can now develop new features simply through Slack. “As a concrete example, an engineer at Spotify on their morning commute from Slack on their cell phone can tell Claude to fix a bug or add a new feature to the iOS app,” Söderström told analysts on the company’s Feb.10 earnings call. “And once Claude finishes that work, the engineer then gets a new version of the app, pushed to them on Slack on their phone, so that he can then merge it to production, all before they even arrive at the office.” Söderström said the new AI-fueled developments—which he traced to the December release of Antropic’s Claude Opus 4.5 within Claude Code—are “just the beginning” in how it will deploy these tools to build new features. The company has been on a big push of new user tools, adding more than 50 new features in 2025, most of which launched in the past few weeks. Söderström credits the combination of Claude Code and Honk with “speeding us up tremendously,” noting that it’s changed how developers operate. “Certainly [before AI tools,] I spent my entire vacation coding rather than being on holiday, and I think most people in tech did,” Söderström said regarding the release. He isn’t alone. A few weeks ago, the head of Anthropic’s Claude Code, Boris Cherny, shared that he also hasn’t written any code in more than two months. Across the rest of the company, he says “pretty much 100%” of code is also AI-generated”, in a post on X. At Davos last month, Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei predicted a year from now AI will be handling most or all of software engineering work from start to finish. “I think we will be there in three to six months, where AI is writing 90% of the code. And then, in 12 months, we may be in a world where AI is writing essentially all of the code,” Amodei said at a Council of Foreign Relations event, Business Insider reported. That timeline is looking increasingly realistic given that Spotify is s just one example. Pinterest is another. In the company’s most recent earnings call on Feb. 12, CEO Bill Ready revealed roughly half of itsnew code is now AI-generated. Even as AI does the lion’s share of coding, developers are focused on learning quickly and refining their approach, according to Soderstrom. “The tricky thing right now is that if this was the end of the change, you could say this is what happened. Now let us retool for this,” Söderström explained. “The tricky thing is that we are in the middle of the change, so you also have to be very agile.” Söderström’s AI bullishness wasn’t entirely echoed among professional developers, some of whom took the opportunity to get a joke in. “It’s true,” Epic Games programmer Ryan Fleury wrote on X. “In fact, I was under the impression that Spotify’s best developers hadn’t written a line of code since 2014.” View the full article

A site owner blamed Google AI Search for falsely reporting their site offline. The answer was a content delivery pitfall. The post Google AI Shows A Site Is Offline Due To JS Content Delivery appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

Interviews under way as US president tries to fill roleView the full article

The global market for hair extensions is booming, and projected to hit $14 billion by 2028. What was once a niche luxury item for women is now widely available. Now, a new study from Silent Spring Institute says many hair extensions—including products made from human hair—contain dozens of hazardous chemicals, some linked to cancer. The research, published in the American Chemical Society journal Environment & Health, provides the strongest evidence to-date about the potential health risks associated with these beauty products, which are largely unregulated. The risks disproportionately affect Black women: The study found over 70% of Black women report wearing hair extensions at least once in the past year, compared with “less than 10% of women from other racial and ethnic groups.” The findings come at a time when many women’s beauty products are under scrutiny, with a growing number of studies finding cancer-causing chemicals in products ranging from shampoo and conditioner, to soap and lotion, to skin lightener, eyeliner, eyelash glue, and even lipstick. Many hair extensions are made from synthetic fibers and bio-based materials, which are often treated with toxic chemicals to ensure they are flame resistant, waterproof, or antimicrobial. Researchers analyzed chemicals in 43 popular hair extension products, including compounds that are not typically tested, and using machine-learning software, were ultimately able to identify 169 of the more than 900 compounds. According to the study, all but two of the samples tested contained hazardous chemicals. Those chemicals included flame retardants, phthalates, pesticides, styrene, tetrachloroethane, and organotins, which are linked with cancer, hormone disruption, developmental problems, and disrupting the immune system. (In girls, they are also linked to early puberty and uterine fibroids.) “Companies rarely disclose the chemicals used . . . leaving consumers in the dark about the health risks from prolonged wear,” Dr. Elissia Franklin, scientist at Silent Spring Institute, said. “The fibers sit directly on the scalp and neck, and when heated and styled, they can release chemicals into the air that wearers may breathe in.” The study concludes more industry regulation is needed. “The findings make clear that stronger oversight is urgently needed to protect consumers and push companies to invest in making safer products,” said Franklin. View the full article

Philanthropic group’s staff express concern about the impact of chair’s ties to disgraced financier after 2008 convictionView the full article

This post is brought to you by our partners at TaxAct and was first posted on their blog. If you and your significant other are living together without being married, you probably share many expenses. One of you may even be financially supporting the other. In such a scenario, you may wonder if you can claim your girlfriend or boyfriend as a dependent on your tax return to take advantage of any tax benefits. Claiming a dependent on your taxes can lower your taxable income, but does your significant other count as a dependent? Here are the facts on how you could claim a domestic partner on your tax return, according to the IRS dependent rules. What are the tax benefits of claiming my boyfriend or girlfriend as a dependent?When you claim someone as your dependent, you are responsible for their financial well-being, including providing for their food, clothing, housing, and other necessities. If you provide over 50% of their financial support throughout the year, you may qualify to claim them as your dependent. This can help you qualify for certain tax credits and deductions when you file your taxes, ultimately saving you money. For example, if your significant other qualifies as your dependent, you may be able to claim the Credit for Other Dependents, a tax credit worth up to $500. If your boyfriend or girlfriend had a lot of medical and dental expenses during the year that you helped pay for, you may also be able to deduct some of those expenses if you itemize. What are the requirements for claiming my significant other as a dependent?The IRS dependent rules are very particular regarding who qualifies as a dependent. Many couples don’t fall within the IRS rules and will have to file taxes as individuals if they are not yet married. If you are uncertain whether you can claim your domestic partner on your tax return, TaxAct® can help you determine whether the individual qualifies during the filing process. According to the IRS dependent rules, only qualifying children and relatives count as dependents. But don’t let the term “relative” confuse you. A domestic partner can be considered a relative under IRS regulations if they meet specific qualifications. If you want to claim your boyfriend or girlfriend as a dependent on taxes, your situation has to meet all of the following IRS requirements: You must live together. To qualify as a dependent, your significant other must have lived with you for at least one calendar year. If you lived together for a shorter time, you cannot claim your significant other as a dependent.Your significant other earned less than $5,200 for 2025. According to the IRS dependent rules, your boyfriend or girlfriend must have earned less than $5,200 for the 2025 tax year if you want to claim them as a dependent (the limit was $5,050 in 2024). If your partner earned more than the limit, they have essentially earned enough to prove to the IRS that they can care for themselves financially. Even if you live with your partner and pay most of the bills, if your significant other earned more than the threshold in a year, you won’t be able to claim your boyfriend or girlfriend as a dependent on your tax return.You must provide more than 50% of their financial support. You may be able to claim your significant other as a dependent on your taxes if you pay for over 50% of their basic living expenses. Living expenses may include housing, groceries, education, medical expenses, and more.You will need to keep track of all these expenses to prove that you provide more than 50% of your significant other’s financial support. Keep all receipts, documentation, and bills so you have them handy when you need them. Documentation is key when you are claiming any sort of special tax deduction in case the IRS asks for proof. When can’t I claim my significant other as a dependent?Even if you and your partner meet the above qualifications, the IRS dependent rules include several caveats and further restrictions. For instance, you cannot claim your partner as a dependent on your taxes if someone else can claim them as a dependent on their tax return. Each dependent can only be claimed by one taxpayer. So, if your significant other’s parents, children, or ex-spouse claim them as a dependent, you cannot also claim them as a dependent. Lastly, to claim your boyfriend or girlfriend as a dependent, they must be a citizen, national, or resident of the United States. Residents of Canada or Mexico can also qualify. What about the Child and Dependent Care Credit?The Child and Dependent Care Credit (CDCC) is a tax break for people who pay child or dependent care costs to care for a qualifying dependent. A common example would be a parent paying daycare costs for someone to watch their child while the parent works. Though they may sound similar, claiming your domestic partner on your tax return as a dependent differs from claiming the CDCC. You will not qualify to claim this credit unless your significant other is sick or unable to care for themselves, and you paid for them to receive care while you worked or looked for work. How do I actually claim my partner on my taxes?Now that you know whether or not you can claim your partner as a dependent on your tax return, let’s look at how you can make the claim when filing your taxes. If you file your return using TaxAct, our tax preparation software will ask you questions about your dependents and help you claim any associated tax credits or deductions based on your answers. We’ll walk you through the process of claiming a dependent step-by-step to make it as easy as possible. This article is for informational purposes only and not legal or financial advice. All TaxAct offers, products and services are subject to applicable terms and conditions. View the full article

This post is brought to you by our partners at TaxAct and was first posted on their blog. If you and your significant other are living together without being married, you probably share many expenses. One of you may even be financially supporting the other. In such a scenario, you may wonder if you can claim your girlfriend or boyfriend as a dependent on your tax return to take advantage of any tax benefits. Claiming a dependent on your taxes can lower your taxable income, but does your significant other count as a dependent? Here are the facts on how you could claim a domestic partner on your tax return, according to the IRS dependent rules. What are the tax benefits of claiming my boyfriend or girlfriend as a dependent?When you claim someone as your dependent, you are responsible for their financial well-being, including providing for their food, clothing, housing, and other necessities. If you provide over 50% of their financial support throughout the year, you may qualify to claim them as your dependent. This can help you qualify for certain tax credits and deductions when you file your taxes, ultimately saving you money. For example, if your significant other qualifies as your dependent, you may be able to claim the Credit for Other Dependents, a tax credit worth up to $500. If your boyfriend or girlfriend had a lot of medical and dental expenses during the year that you helped pay for, you may also be able to deduct some of those expenses if you itemize. What are the requirements for claiming my significant other as a dependent?The IRS dependent rules are very particular regarding who qualifies as a dependent. Many couples don’t fall within the IRS rules and will have to file taxes as individuals if they are not yet married. If you are uncertain whether you can claim your domestic partner on your tax return, TaxAct® can help you determine whether the individual qualifies during the filing process. According to the IRS dependent rules, only qualifying children and relatives count as dependents. But don’t let the term “relative” confuse you. A domestic partner can be considered a relative under IRS regulations if they meet specific qualifications. If you want to claim your boyfriend or girlfriend as a dependent on taxes, your situation has to meet all of the following IRS requirements: You must live together. To qualify as a dependent, your significant other must have lived with you for at least one calendar year. If you lived together for a shorter time, you cannot claim your significant other as a dependent.Your significant other earned less than $5,200 for 2025. According to the IRS dependent rules, your boyfriend or girlfriend must have earned less than $5,200 for the 2025 tax year if you want to claim them as a dependent (the limit was $5,050 in 2024). If your partner earned more than the limit, they have essentially earned enough to prove to the IRS that they can care for themselves financially. Even if you live with your partner and pay most of the bills, if your significant other earned more than the threshold in a year, you won’t be able to claim your boyfriend or girlfriend as a dependent on your tax return.You must provide more than 50% of their financial support. You may be able to claim your significant other as a dependent on your taxes if you pay for over 50% of their basic living expenses. Living expenses may include housing, groceries, education, medical expenses, and more.You will need to keep track of all these expenses to prove that you provide more than 50% of your significant other’s financial support. Keep all receipts, documentation, and bills so you have them handy when you need them. Documentation is key when you are claiming any sort of special tax deduction in case the IRS asks for proof. When can’t I claim my significant other as a dependent?Even if you and your partner meet the above qualifications, the IRS dependent rules include several caveats and further restrictions. For instance, you cannot claim your partner as a dependent on your taxes if someone else can claim them as a dependent on their tax return. Each dependent can only be claimed by one taxpayer. So, if your significant other’s parents, children, or ex-spouse claim them as a dependent, you cannot also claim them as a dependent. Lastly, to claim your boyfriend or girlfriend as a dependent, they must be a citizen, national, or resident of the United States. Residents of Canada or Mexico can also qualify. What about the Child and Dependent Care Credit?The Child and Dependent Care Credit (CDCC) is a tax break for people who pay child or dependent care costs to care for a qualifying dependent. A common example would be a parent paying daycare costs for someone to watch their child while the parent works. Though they may sound similar, claiming your domestic partner on your tax return as a dependent differs from claiming the CDCC. You will not qualify to claim this credit unless your significant other is sick or unable to care for themselves, and you paid for them to receive care while you worked or looked for work. How do I actually claim my partner on my taxes?Now that you know whether or not you can claim your partner as a dependent on your tax return, let’s look at how you can make the claim when filing your taxes. If you file your return using TaxAct, our tax preparation software will ask you questions about your dependents and help you claim any associated tax credits or deductions based on your answers. We’ll walk you through the process of claiming a dependent step-by-step to make it as easy as possible. This article is for informational purposes only and not legal or financial advice. All TaxAct offers, products and services are subject to applicable terms and conditions. View the full article

Project management has its obstacles. Breaking down massive deliverables into smaller, achievable tasks. Keeping a team of experts aligned on objectives. Preventing the project’s scope from creeping to a point where the end result is a shadow of the project’s original intent. Getting buy-in from stakeholders when plans change. But the challenges don’t end at your project’s boundaries. Projects impact each other across the organization, and few leaders have the strategic visibility they need to see these impacts. That’s where integrated project management comes in. What is integrated project management? In most organizations, projects are run individually, with little in common between them. There may be a project management template bouncing around that some PMs use, but there’s no generally agreed-upon best practices. Each new project starts from scratch, with everything from methodology to reporting guidelines and basic tasks being up for discussion. Integrated project management, by contrast, aligns every aspect of running projects under a single umbrella. The project management process is pre-defined and consistent throughout projects. Every project is part of a broader portfolio, rather than an isolated island. That means the planning, scoping, and resourcing for each project takes others into account. Specialists and managers across teams might be involved in various projects, even outside their typical teams, breaking down silos between departments. Decision-making accounts for every project in an organization’s portfolio, using a holistic view of everything happening at the organization rather than focusing uniquely on outcomes for individual projects in isolation. In short, integrated project management is a single coordinated approach that covers all projects within an organization. It allows for better resource management, knowledge sharing between teams, and organization-wide visibility on risks and outcomes. The seven steps of integrated project management Here’s a step-by-step process for turning disjointed projects into a single, fully-integrated project management process. Step 1: Develop your integrated project charter Your project charter lists a project’s objectives, defines its scope, and ensures stakeholders sign off on what needs to happen before work can begin. But project charters are often created in isolation, with little oversight on other projects. The first step to setting up your integrated project management methodology is building a charter that shows how a project connects to the organization’s overall strategy, how stakeholders in other teams will be looped in, and the initiatives the project contributes to. Step 2: Build your integrated management plan Your project management plan needs to account for how projects might span the boundaries between departments, involve dependencies with other projects, or require input from stakeholders in other teams. When you’re figuring out how you’ll run a project, consider the following: Meet with representatives from different departments to get a full picture of dependencies and requirements. Build flexibility into your plan to account for dependencies or cross-functional impacts you didn’t anticipate. Review best practices and institutional knowledge established in other projects. Step 3: Direct and manage cross-functional project work When managing a cross-functional project under an integrated methodology, remember the following best practices: Collaborate asynchronously: When important updates are shared in meetings, stakeholders and collaborators in other departments might fall out of sync with project work. Prioritize asynchronous channels like Slack or your project management tool for important updates. Make progress tracking transparent: Project management platforms like Asana have built-in progress trackers and reports you should use to make this information more accessible to everyone involved in a project. Define expectations around communication: How will people communicate project updates? How are reports shared? How should someone ask a collaborator for a deliverable they need to keep moving? This should be clearly defined before your project begins and reinforced as it goes on. Build decision-making frameworks: How should decisions be made? Which stakeholders should be involved in routine decisions? What about more serious decisions? Step 4: Manage project knowledge Robust documentation is essential to integrated project management. Every project generates a ton of data that can be used to run better projects in the future (e.g., what happens when stakeholders aren’t properly defined at the start of a project). Pick a documentation platform—unless your organization already uses one—and record any lessons you learn or insights you gain from running a project. Then, make consulting that documentation part of your project management process. Step 5: Monitor and control performance across all projects Leadership should have a portfolio-wide view of active projects and their performance, the same way a financial advisor might track investments across asset categories. Project management tools often have built-in methods for doing this, but even a spreadsheet that reports on progress for key deliverables can be a good starting point. Step 6: Perform integrated change control When you’re managing a single project, a sudden change can potentially derail a few tasks or even an essential deliverable. But when that project is integrated with the rest of your portfolio, even a simple change can lead to a cascade of consequences. Have clear reporting guidelines so information about these changes can trickle up to the portfolio level, where project managers can perform impact assessments, coordinate approvals, and communicate updates to the right stakeholders. From there, leaders can make the decisions necessary to keep project portfolios healthy. Step 7: Execute project closure and capture lessons With an integrated project management process, every project is a massive opportunity for capturing learnings that impact your entire portfolio. But those learnings are only useful if they’re documented somewhere all project managers can access them. Define a shared platform for this documentation as part of your integrated project management process, then make sure the outcomes of each project are documented in it. Why software integration is essential for integrated project management Setting out to implement an integrated project management process is a solid goal. So why do organizations with excellent project managers struggle to do so? Software integration. Few organizations use a single platform to run all their projects. Even if they did, they’d have to use other tools to supplement their single project management app, from spreadsheets to CRMs. Having to rely on multiple tools can make communication and collaboration overly complex in even a single project—let alone an entire portfolio. That’s why software integrations are essential for integrated project management. They keep data flowing between tools so your project managers aren’t chasing updates and deliverables on top of the additional responsibilities that already come with integrated project management. Real-time bidirectional sync: The integrated project management solution Not all software integrations are suitable for every project. One-way automations like Zapier might be effective for simple processes or small teams, but they’re rarely enough for an integrated project management process. They can handle the creation of new tasks or updating small bits of information, but they have their limits. That’s where a real-time bidirectional sync comes in. These integrations don’t just create new tasks or carry over simple data. They create true, two-way relationships between tasks in your project management tools and work items in other tools, automatically keeping both up to date as you work. Unito has some of the deepest two-way integrations on the market for project management apps like Asana, ClickUp, and Smartsheet, as well as other platforms like Jira, GitHub, and ServiceNow. Want to see what the right integration can do? Get a custom product demo and watch how Unito transforms your projects. Talk with sales The benefits of truly integrated project management Break down organizational silos In most organizations, silos form around departments and tools. These silos trap essential data, slow down collaboration, and potentially throw projects in complete disarray. Integrated project management breaks down these silos — especially when supported by software integration — since teams are expected to collaborate across department lines and PMs loop in stakeholders across the organization. Gain complete portfolio visibility Integrated project management makes portfolio-level visibility a default in organizations where it’s typically unavailable. Project managers are expected to report on their projects in a way that contributes to that visibility, and leaders get reports that support it, too. Maximize resource utilization When project managers and leaders get better visibility on the relationships between projects and their impacts organization-wide, they have a better sense of where project resources are going — and what the organization gets out of them. That gives them a better ability to dedicate resources to projects with a better ROI, improving outcomes for the organization overall. Accelerate project delivery Most projects run into delays when deliverables, updates, and tasks have to cross team or department lines. Integrated project management allows these things to move seamlessly, eliminating delays and misunderstandings. Teams don’t need weekly syncs to stay aligned. Their tools do it for them. Achieve true strategic alignment When strategic alignment depends on spreadsheets and reports being shared to a single tool, that alignment comes on the back of hours of manual work. Not only that, but project members and stakeholders alike have to consult that tool for updates. Integrated project management keeps everyone aligned, no matter where they work or what their role is. Make integrated project management Integrated project management turns disparate projects into a portfolio which, just like an investment portfolio, can be reviewed, balanced, and optimized. Project managers can see where their projects contribute to broader organizational goals, leaders can allocate resources more effectively. Individual collaborators can collaborate more effectively across teams. Leaders get a better strategic view of everything going on in the organization. It’s a win-win-win. But integrated project management can’t happen without the right integration. Get the right integration for integrated project management Talk with sales View the full article

Spending time in a sauna can feel good, but it can also entail a little bit of suffering; after all, if the weather outside were the same as the temperature in a sauna, you’d probably want to hide out in the air conditioning all day. There’s something about unpleasant bodily experiences that makes us think they must be good for us, somehow, and so the sauna has gained a healthful reputation that it doesn’t entirely deserve. Here’s a rundown of what a sauna can and can’t do for you. Saunas don’t burn fatIt is technically true that you can lose weight by sitting in a sauna, but that’s not because your body is torching fat; it’s because you’re sweating, and sweat is made of water, and water weighs something. As soon as you rehydrate—which you should—the scale will go right back to where it was at the beginning. After all, as I've discussed in the context of exercise, sweating doesn’t mean that you got a good workout or that you burned calories. It just means you were hot. People who sell saunas and sauna services like to talk up their calorie-burning benefits, but there’s no evidence to suggest you burn significantly more calories sitting in a hot room than you would sitting on your couch at home. Some more skeptical websites cite a modest figure of 1.5 to 2 times as many calories as you would burn sitting at room temperature, but without a citation. If true, that’s about the same as the difference between sitting and standing—so you can skip that trip to the sauna and just spend half an hour standing around. So why does your fitness tracker say you burned a ton of calories in the sauna? First of all, don't bring your phone in the sauna, it's bad for the battery. But since you did anyway, I'll explain. The calorie-burning algorithms on your watch are built to estimate your calorie burn from your heart rate under the assumption that you are exercising. If your heart rate increases but you are not exercising, the calculations aren't correct. The calorie burn during exercise comes from the fact that muscles all over your body are contracting over and over again. That is simply not what's happening when you sit in the sauna. Saunas don’t “detox” youIt’s 2026 and we as a society should be over this “detox” concept, which has been debunked time and time again. Ordinary inconveniences like being tired sometimes aren’t due to some secret toxins that are constantly poisoning you, and even if you do have health issues due to toxins, you should seek medical treatment and not expect smoothies or saunas to cure you. Saunas don’t replace exerciseSaunas and exercise both heat up your body and make you sweat, but there aren’t many similarities aside from that. Remember, exercise makes us stronger and improves our cardiovascular endurance (giving us a higher VO2max, for example). Sweating in a hot room doesn’t do that. Even this rundown from an exercise science researcher, whose headline draws parallels between running and sitting in a sauna, includes the following disclaimer: "Before you contemplate cancelling your gym membership and investing the savings in a Jacuzzi, know that regular saunas or baths are unable to replicate all the health benefits of exercise training, such as promoting fat loss and increasing muscle mass. Using hot baths or saunas shouldn’t be considered as a substitute for exercise." Saunas may be good for your blood vesselsWhat that researcher does point out, after the disclaimer, is that there are a few lesser-known benefits of exercise that seem to be related to the increase in body heat and heart rate, rather than from the more obvious strain on our lungs or muscles. When your body temperature rises, blood vessels near the surface of your skin dilate (get wider) and this process may help cell growth and repair. In other words, simply raising body temperature may be good for your blood vessels. That's not something we normally think about, but healthy blood vessels are a part of a healthy cardiovascular system. Relaxation is realIf you find saunas relaxing—and many of us do—that can be a health benefit in itself. Now, this isn’t as concrete a benefit as it’s sometimes made out to be. You’re not going to cure your depression or reverse your heart disease just by relaxing in a sauna every now and then. But if you enjoy your sauna sessions, they could certainly contribute to lowering your stress levels and improving your mental health. Pro tip: If you don't have access to a sauna, a hot bath may have a lot of these effects as well. Heat has its pros and consFor other medical conditions and athletic uses, the pros and cons of a sauna come down to the pros and cons of heat itself. If you have sore muscles, heat often feels good, so athletes often enjoy sauna sessions. Some skin conditions respond well to the dry air of a sauna, while others can be exacerbated by dry air but could feel better with the humid air of a steam room. Use common sense and check with your medical provider if you want to use a sauna to manage a health condition. Saunas have risks, tooIf we’re talking about health benefits, it’s only fair to discuss risks as well. Saunas are reasonably safe, but people with medical conditions are often advised to steer clear, or to talk to a doctor before deciding to spend time in a sauna. This may include you if you are pregnant, have unusually high or low blood pressure, have epilepsy, or are taking stimulants, tranquilizers, or mind-altering drugs. Spending time in a sauna has also been linked to temporarily lowered fertility because heat impairs the production of sperm. The main danger of a sauna is that you could overheat or dehydrate; severe heat illness and dehydration can both be life threatening, and people have died in saunas. Alcohol makes you more susceptible; half of the people who died in saunas, according to a Finnish study, were under the influence of alcohol. (The authors argue that the biggest danger is not alcohol itself, but allowing a drunk person to be in a sauna alone.) So if you choose to spend time in a sauna, be smart about it. Hydrate well, don’t go alone, and don’t expect the sauna to do things that saunas can’t do. View the full article

They actually did it. OpenAI officially deprecated GPT-4o on Friday, despite the model's particularly passionate fan base. This news shouldn't have been such a surprise. In fact, the company announced that Feb. 13 would mark the end of GPT-4o—as well as models like GPT-4.1, GPT-4.1 mini, and o4-mini—just over two weeks ago. However, whether you're one of the many who are attached to this model, or you simply know how dedicated 4o's user base is, you might be surprised OpenAI actually killed its most agreeable AI. This isn't the first time the company depreciated the model, either. OpenAI previously shut down GPT-4o back in August, to coincide with the release of GPT-5. Users quickly revolted against the company, some because they felt GPT-5 was a poor upgrade compared to 4o, while others legitimately mourned connections they had developed with the model. The backlash was so strong that OpenAI relented, and rereleased the models it had deprecated, including 4o. If you're a casual ChatGPT user, you might just use the app as-is, and assume the newest version tends to be the best, and wonder what all the hullabaloo surrounding these models is all about. After all, whether it's GPT-4o, or GPT-5.2, the model spits out generations that read like AI, complete with flowery word choices, awkward similes, and constant affirmations. 4o, however, does tend to lean even more into affirmations than other models, which is what some users love about it. But critics accuse it of being too agreeable: 4o is at the center of lawsuits accusing ChatGPT of enabling delusional thinking, and, in some cases, helping users take their own lives. As TechCrunch highlights, 4o is OpenAI's highest-scoring model for sycophancy. I'm not sure where 4o's most devoted fans go from here, nor do I know how OpenAI is prepared to deal with the presumed backlash to this deprecation. But I know it's not a good sign that so many people feel this attached to an AI model. Disclosure: Ziff Davis, Mashable’s parent company, in April 2025 filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging it infringed Ziff Davis copyrights in training and operating its AI systems. View the full article

It’s only February, and an outbreak of measles infections is already inching toward nearly 1,000 cases this year in the U.S. Infections are at an all-time high as a result of declining vaccination rates, following a steep rise in cases in 2025 at 2,280 cases, the highest in 33 years. This week saw new outbreaks concentrated in both South Carolina and Florida. Here’s what you need to know. What’s happened? As of Thursday, February 12, there were 910 confirmed measles cases in 24 states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (Another six cases were reported among international visitors coming to the U.S.) Those states are: Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Kentucky, Maine, Minnesota, Nebraska, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin, per CDC data. There have been five new outbreaks reported in 2026—90% of which are associated with outbreaks that started in 2025. Cases in South Carolina and Florida are spreading In South Carolina, the largest outbreak continues to spread with over 900 cases since last September, CBS News reported. The South Carolina Department of Health reported 933 cases centered around Spartanburg County as of February 10. Meanwhile, in Florida, more than 50 nursing students at Ave Maria University near Naples have contracted the virus, bringing the total there to 57 cases, USA Today reported. What is measles? Measles is a highly contagious virus. A person is contagious four days before showing signs of a rash, meaning they can spread the virus without knowing they are infected. The virus can stay in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves. It causes a blotchy, red rash that usually appears on the body three to five days after initial symptoms. Getting the measles vaccine (MMR and MMRV) is the best way to protect against it. Who is contracting measles? Of the 910 cases in the U.S. in 2026, 94% of those that contracted measles were either unvaccinated or of unknown vaccination status, according to CDC data. Only 2% received one vaccine dose, while only 3% received both doses. A majority of those infected (58%) are aged 5-19 years old. Of the 910 cases, 277 cases (25%) were in people under 5 years, 527 cases (58%) were in people aged 5-19 years, 136 cases (15%) were in those aged 20+ years, and 20 cases (12%) were in people of unknown age. View the full article

The mortgage broker trade group put out a white paper calling for lowering transaction costs, increasing housing supply and reducing regulatory barriers. View the full article

AI-powered browser extensions continue to be a popular vector for threat actors looking to harvest user information. Researchers at security firm LayerX have analyzed multiple campaigns in recent months involving malicious browser extensions, including the widespread GhostPoster scheme targeting Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. In the latest one—dubbed AiFrame—threat actors have pushed approximately 30 Chrome add-ons that impersonate well-known AI assistants, including Claude, ChatGPT, Gemini, Grok, and "AI Gmail." Collectively, these fakes have more than 300,000 installs. Fake Chrome extensions look like popular AI assistantsThe Chrome extensions identified as part of AiFrame look like legitimate AI tools commonly used for summarizing, chat, writing, and Gmail assistance. But once installed, they grant attackers wide-ranging remote access to the user's browser. Some of the capabilities observed include voice recognition, pixel tracking, and email content readability. Researchers note that extensions are broadly capable of harvesting data and monitoring user behavior. Though the extensions analyzed by LayerX used a variety of names and branding, all 30 were found to have the same internal structure, logic, permissions, and backend infrastructure. Instead of implementing functionality locally on the user's device, they render a full-screen iframe that loads remote content as the extension's interface. This allows attackers to push changes silently at any time without a requiring Chrome Web Store update. LayerX has a complete list of the names and extension IDs to refer to. Because threat actors use familiar and/or generic branding, such as "Gemini AI Sidebar" and "ChatGPT Translate," you may not be able to identify fakes at first glance. If you have an AI assistant installed in Chrome, go to chrome://extensions, toggle on Developer mode in the top-right corner, and search for the ID below the extension name. Remove any malicious add-ons and reset passwords. As BleepingComputer reports, some of the malicious extensions have already been removed from the Chrome Web Store, but others remain. Several have received the "Featured" badge, adding to their legitimacy. Threat actors have also been able to quickly republish add-ons under new names using the existing infrastructure, so this campaign and others like it may persist. Always vet extensions carefully—don't just rely on a familiar name like ChatGPT—and note that even AI-powered add-ons from trusted sources can be highly invasive. View the full article

Project plans rarely hold true once the execution phase starts. Requirements evolve, stakeholders change their minds, risks turn into issues and teams learn as they go. That’s where iterative project management earns its place. Instead of betting everything on a single pass, it encourages progress, feedback and adjustment of dynamic, evolving plans. Understanding how it works helps you build resilient projects. However, before defining what iterative project management is, one must first define two closely related ideas: iteration and iterative process. They’re often used interchangeably in conversation, but they don’t mean exactly the same thing and clarifying that distinction is important for truly understanding iterative project management and being able to apply it in day-to-day project work. What Is an Iteration In Project Management? In practical terms, an iteration is a short, focused work cycle where a team plans, executes and reviews a specific portion of project work. It produces tangible deliverables, tests assumptions and exposes project planning gaps early. Rather than working towards a single final project delivery, teams use iterations to learn, adjust scope and refine priorities. ProjectManager is an award-winning project portfolio management software that offers advanced planning, scheduling and tracking tools for software development and IT teams, allowing them to manage agile iterative workflows, allocate resources and track progress, costs and timelines in real time. Additionally, ProjectManager integrates with Jira, Azure Devops and features an open API that facilitates integration with other software development tools. Get started for free today. /wp-content/uploads/2024/03/operations-implementation-kanban-150-cta-1600x787.jpgLearn more What Is an Iterative Process In Project Management? When those short cycles known as iterations in project management are intentionally repeated with built-in review and adjustment, they form an iterative process. In an iterative process work moves forward in increments, feedback reshapes upcoming tasks and lessons from one cycle directly influence the next. Over time, this structured repetition reduces risk, improves alignment and steadily strengthens overall project outcomes, which are built on constant feedback from project team members and external stakeholders. What Is Iterative Project Management? Iterative project management is an approach where project work is planned and delivered in repeated iteration cycles rather than a single linear sequence. Each iterative process produces usable output, incorporates feedback and reshapes upcoming tasks. Instead of locking everything upfront, teams intentionally adjust scope, priorities and solutions as real-world information emerges during execution. Benefits of Iterative Project Management We’ve already hinted at some advantages, but now it’s worth slowing down and looking at the most practical benefits teams experience when they implement iterative project management instead of committing to a traditional project plan. Increased customer satisfaction: Regular demonstrations and incremental deliveries allow customers and stakeholders to provide feedback early, which leads to outcomes that better match their evolving expectations. Earlier risk identification: Short work cycles expose technical, resource and requirement risks sooner, giving teams time to correct course before problems scale. Reduced rework: Because assumptions are tested frequently, misunderstandings are corrected in smaller increments rather than discovered at final delivery. Greater scope control: Teams can refine priorities between iterations, preventing uncontrolled scope growth and keeping focus on the highest-value work. Improved stakeholder alignment: Frequent check-ins keep stakeholders like sponsors, clients and team members aligned on progress, constraints and next steps. Better cost visibility: Incremental progress makes it easier to evaluate spending against delivered value instead of waiting for end-of-project financial reviews. Higher team accountability: Defined iteration goals create short-term commitments, encouraging ownership and measurable performance within each cycle. Faster delivery of usable features: Rather than waiting months for a complete solution, stakeholders begin receiving functional components earlier in the project lifecycle. Stronger adaptability to change: When priorities shift, adjustments can be made in upcoming iterations without destabilizing the entire project plan. Continuous process improvement: Retrospectives and reviews built into each cycle allow teams to refine workflows, communication and estimation accuracy over time. Examples of Iterative Projects Iterative processes aren’t limited to one industry. Iterative project management is used across industries that naturally benefit from structured, feedback-driven cycles. Software Development Inside software development teams, requirements shift, edge cases appear and technical constraints surface only after code is written and tested. Iterative project management allows developers to build in increments, validate functionality quickly and refactor before complexity compounds. Instead of attempting one massive release, teams stabilize architecture, improve performance and reduce defects through repeated, controlled engineering cycles. Related: 18 Free Software Development Templates for Excel, Word & More Here are some examples of iterative projects in software development. Developing a customer relationship management (CRM) system through sprint-based feature releases Building a mobile banking app with incremental security and usability enhancements Modernizing a legacy enterprise system through phased refactoring cycles Creating an e-commerce platform with staged checkout and payment integrations Implementing API integrations across multiple third-party systems Digital Product Development At the product level, uncertainty doesn’t just come from code—it comes from the market. Teams must validate assumptions about users, pricing and positioning while software is being built. Iterative project management supports MVP releases, structured user feedback and roadmap adjustments. Instead of locking strategy upfront, product teams refine value propositions and feature priorities based on real customer behavior. Here are some examples of iterative projects in digital product development. Launching a subscription-based fitness app starting with a focused MVP Developing a fintech product with phased feature rollouts based on user adoption Creating a marketplace platform and refining pricing through A/B testing Building a learning management system while iterating on UX design from user feedback Introducing a new SaaS analytics product with staged onboarding improvements Marketing Campaign performance rarely matches marketing projections on the first attempt. Audience behavior, platform algorithms and competitive responses shift constantly. Iterative project management allows marketing teams to test messaging, adjust targeting and refine creative assets based on measurable data. Instead of committing the full budget upfront, teams optimize conversion rates, engagement and return on investment through structured experimentation cycles. Related: 20 Marketing Templates for Planning, Strategy & More Here are some examples of iterative projects in digital product development. Running a paid social media campaign with weekly creative testing and audience refinements Launching an email marketing funnel and optimizing subject lines through A/B testing Rolling out a content marketing strategy and adjusting topics based on engagement metrics Executing a product launch campaign with phased messaging adjustments Testing landing page variations to improve conversion performance Research & Development (R&D) Innovation rarely follows a straight line from concept to finished solution. Unknown variables, technical feasibility and performance constraints only become clear through testing. Iterative project management supports structured experimentation, prototype validation and controlled refinement. Rather than committing full resources upfront, R&D teams reduce uncertainty by building, testing and improving solutions in progressive development cycles. Here are some examples of iterative projects in R&D. Designing a new medical device through successive prototype testing phases Developing a renewable energy technology with iterative laboratory trials Creating an automotive component and refining it through performance testing cycles Formulating a new pharmaceutical compound through staged clinical validation Building hardware prototypes for consumer electronics with incremental feature refinement Iterative Project Management Methodologies While iterative processes are dynamic and beneficial for organizations, they can become chaotic without a structured framework. Over time, several iterative project management methodologies have emerged to bring consistency and discipline to repeated cycles of planning, execution and review. Below is a practical overview of the most widely used approaches. Agile Project Management More than a structured project management methodology, agile project management is an iterative project management philosophy grounded in the Agile Manifesto, which emphasizes individuals and interactions, working solutions, customer collaboration and responsiveness to change. Rather than prescribing a strict framework, agile provides guiding principles for adaptive delivery, allowing teams to organize iterative work in ways that best fit their context. Because agile is principle-driven rather than structurally rigid, iterations are implemented through frameworks such as scrum or flow-based systems like kanban. Teams collaborate closely with stakeholders, maintain prioritized backlogs and review progress frequently. Planning, feedback and adjustment happen continuously, but the specific ceremonies, roles and tracking tools depend on the chosen agile variation. Scrum Scrum is a structured agile framework that organizes work into fixed-length iterations called sprints, usually lasting two to four weeks. It defines specific roles, events and artifacts to guide iterative delivery. Scrum emphasizes transparency, inspection and adaptation, ensuring that progress and priorities are reviewed frequently and adjusted as needed. In Scrum, constant team meetings called ceremonies are important for planning how work will be executed. Iterations are managed through sprint planning sessions where the product owner prioritizes backlog items and the team commits to deliverables. Daily stand-up meetings track short-term progress, while sprint reviews gather stakeholder feedback on completed work. Retrospectives evaluate team performance. Tools such as product backlogs, sprint backlogs and burndown charts help maintain visibility and accountability. Kanban Kanban is an iterative project management methodology focused on visualizing workflow and limiting work in progress to improve delivery efficiency. Unlike time-boxed approaches, it operates through continuous flow. Work items move across defined stages, allowing teams to identify bottlenecks and optimize throughput without fixed sprint cycles. Iterations in kanban emerge through workflow management rather than scheduled sprints. Teams visualize tasks on kanban boards, typically divided into columns such as to do, in progress and done. Work-in-progress limits prevent overload, while regular review meetings assess cycle time and throughput. Continuous monitoring ensures adjustments happen naturally as work progresses. Extreme Programming Extreme programming (xp) is an agile, iterative project management methodology that emphasizes technical excellence, rapid feedback and continuous improvement. It focuses heavily on disciplined engineering practices such as pair programming, test-driven development and continuous integration. The goal is to improve software quality while remaining highly responsive to changing requirements. Iterations in extreme programming are short and highly structured, often one to two weeks long. Developers work in pairs, write automated tests before coding and integrate changes frequently to avoid large-scale defects. Continuous customer involvement ensures requirements stay aligned with business needs. Tools typically include version control systems, automated testing frameworks and continuous integration servers. Lean Development Lean development is an iterative project management approach rooted in lean manufacturing principles, focused on maximizing value while minimizing waste. It encourages delivering small increments of work, validating assumptions quickly and eliminating activities that do not contribute directly to customer outcomes or measurable progress. Iterations in lean development are driven by value delivery and flow efficiency rather than strict time boxes. Cross-functional teams prioritize high-impact tasks, limit work in progress and measure cycle time to identify bottlenecks. Feedback from users and stakeholders informs continuous adjustments. Visual boards, value stream mapping and flow metrics support ongoing optimization of the process. Iterative Project Management Tools Now that we have a better understanding of what iterative project management is and the different methodologies that teams use to coordinate their efforts, let’s take a closer look at the tools that help them manage iterative projects. Kanban Board A kanban board is a visual workflow management tool that displays work items as cards moving across columns representing stages of progress, such as to do, in progress and done. Each card typically includes a task description, owner, priority and status. Work-in-progress limits are often set per column to control capacity and maintain flow. /wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kanban-board-excel-template-600x202.jpgFree kanban board template for Excel Using a kanban board, teams manage iterative work by continuously pulling tasks through the workflow rather than waiting for fixed cycles. As cards move across stages, bottlenecks become visible and adjustments happen in real time. Regular reviews of flow metrics such as cycle time help teams refine processes and improve delivery predictability. Sprint Backlog A sprint backlog is a prioritized list of tasks selected from the product backlog for completion during a specific sprint. It usually appears as a structured list or board containing user stories, task breakdowns, estimates and assigned team members. The sprint backlog defines the committed scope for that iteration. Within an iterative process, the sprint backlog acts as the execution plan for a single time-boxed cycle. During sprint planning, the team selects and refines backlog items, then tracks progress daily. As work is completed, tasks move to done, and unfinished items are reassessed at the sprint review before the next iteration begins. Product Backlog A product backlog is a continuously evolving, prioritized list of features, enhancements, fixes and technical improvements required for a product. Items are typically written as user stories and include descriptions, acceptance criteria and estimated effort. It serves as the central repository of all potential work aligned with product goals. /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Product-backlog-template-new-600x166.pngFree product backlog template for Excel In iterative project management, the product backlog feeds upcoming iterations by ranking work according to value and urgency. Before each cycle begins, high-priority items are refined and selected for execution. Ongoing stakeholder feedback reshapes backlog priorities, ensuring future iterations focus on delivering the most meaningful improvements. Burndown Chart A burndown chart is a simple line graph that tracks remaining work against time within a sprint or iteration. The horizontal axis represents days in the cycle, while the vertical axis shows total work, often measured in story points or hours. An ideal trend line indicates planned progress, while the actual line shows real performance. During an iteration, teams review the burndown chart daily to see whether work is progressing as expected. If the actual line flattens or rises, it signals delays, scope changes or estimation gaps. This visibility allows teams to adjust workload, remove blockers or recalibrate expectations before the iteration ends. Retrospective Framework A retrospective framework is a structured meeting format used at the end of an iteration to evaluate how the team worked. It typically includes prompts such as what went well, what did not and what should change. Notes are captured visibly, often on boards or shared documents, to organize insights and action items. At the close of each iteration, the retrospective framework helps teams convert experience into improvement. Participants openly discuss collaboration, tools and obstacles, then agree on specific adjustments for the next cycle. Those action items feed directly into upcoming iterations, reinforcing continuous learning and strengthening the overall iterative process. ProjectManager Can Help with IT & Software Development Projects ProjectManager is an award-winning project portfolio management software equipped with powerful features for IT and software development teams, such as Gantt chart roadmaps to manage delivery plans and project portfolios, dashboards for monitoring resource utilization, project costs and progress in real time and kanban boards for agile sprints and iterative planning. ProjectManager also offers robust resource management features such as workload charts to balance teams’ workloads and timesheets for detailed time tracking. On top of that, ProjectManager integrates with Jira and Azure DevOps and has an open API so that organizations can integrate its powerful project portfolio management features with their favorite tools. Watch the video below to learn more. The post Iterative Project Management: Methods and Tools appeared first on ProjectManager. View the full article

On episode 341 of PPC Live The Podcast, I speak to Andrea Cruz, Head of B2B at Tinuiti, to unpack a mistake many senior marketers quietly struggle with: freezing when clients demand answers you don’t immediately have. The conversation explored how communication missteps can escalate client tension — and how the right mindset, preparation, and culture can turn those moments into career-defining growth. From hands-on marketer to team leader As Cruz advanced in her career, she shifted from managing campaigns directly to leading teams running large, complex accounts. That transition introduced a new challenge: representing work she didn’t personally execute day to day. When clients pushed back — questioning performance or expectations — Cruz sometimes froze. Saying “I don’t know” or delaying a response could quickly erode trust and escalate frustration. Her key realization: senior leaders are expected to provide perspective in the moment. Even without every detail, they must guide the conversation confidently. How to buy time without losing trust Through mentorship and experience, Cruz developed a practical technique: asking clarifying questions to gain thinking time while deepening understanding. Examples include: Asking clients to clarify expectations or timelines Requesting additional context around their concerns Confirming what the client already knows about the situation These questions serve two purposes: they slow down emotionally charged moments and ensure responses address the real issue, not just the surface complaint. For Cruz, this approach was especially important as a non-native English speaker, giving her space to process complex conversations and respond clearly. A solutions-first culture beats blame Cruz emphasized that mistakes are inevitable — but how teams respond defines long-term success. At Tinuiti, the focus is not on assigning blame but on answering two questions: Where are we now? How do we get to where we want to be? This solutions-oriented mindset creates psychological safety. Teams can openly acknowledge errors, run post-mortems, and identify patterns without fear. Cruz argues that leaders must model this behavior by sharing their own mistakes, not just scrutinizing others’. That transparency builds trust internally and with clients. Proactive communication builds stronger client relationship Rather than waiting for clients to surface problems, Cruz encourages teams to raise issues first. Acknowledging underperformance — even when clients haven’t noticed — demonstrates accountability and strengthens partnerships. She also recommends tailoring communication styles to each client. Some prefer concise updates; others want detailed explanations. Documenting these preferences helps teams deliver information in ways that resonate. Regular check-ins about business roadblocks — not just campaign metrics — position agencies as strategic partners, not just media operators. Common agency mistakes in B2B advertising Cruz didn’t hold back on recurring issues she sees in audits: Budgets spread too thin: Running too many channels with insufficient spend leads to meaningless data and weak performance. Underfunded campaigns: B2B CPCs are inherently high. Campaigns generating only a few clicks per day rarely produce actionable results. Her advice is blunt: if the budget can’t support a channel properly, it’s better not to run it. AI is more than a summarization tool On AI, Cruz cautioned against shallow usage. Treating AI as a simple spreadsheet summarizer misses its broader potential. Her team is experimenting with advanced applications — automated audits, workflow integrations, and operational efficiencies. She compares AI’s role to medical diagnostics: a powerful assistant that augments expert judgment, not a replacement for it. For marketers, that means staying curious and continuously exploring new use cases. The takeaway: preparation and passion drive resilience Cruz’s central message is simple: mistakes will happen. What matters is preparation, adaptability, and maintaining a solutions-first mindset. By anticipating client needs, personalizing communication, and embracing experimentation, marketers can transform stressful moments into opportunities to build credibility. View the full article